| |
Phenomenal Elmer Iseler Singers perform to full houseReview of concert given April 24, 2004 at St. John's United Church, Georgetown, ON |
April 25, 2004 |  | | The twenty members in the Elmer Iseler ensemble sounded more like sixty in our terrific sound space. They managed the sound qualities of the building with expert control. So many magnificent pieces, so hard to choose a few favourites. My sister from St. Marys insisted on coming to the concert with us. She had seen the group perform in London. At one point she gave me a nudge and said, 'This is good.' The lights had gone down, about half a dozen singers stayed up front and the rest of the ensemble took up spots around the periphery of the sanctuary. Artistic director Lydia Adams called it the 'Mi'kmaq Honour Song.' Core singers performed a chant, and the others came in with all manner of bird calls, owl hoots, insect clicks and wolf howls. This might perhaps have been the best piece to showcase the sound qualities of our sanctuary, because the room allowed all these delicate disparate sounds to have such a warm round central focal point. That piece was indeed a rare treat to hear here. The capper was hearing our marvelous St. Johns choir and the Iseler Singers perform the Canadian classic, 'Rise again.' That number engaged at least 40 voices. The piece was so tremendously well controlled that I didn't hear the distortion I occasionally do with dynamically powerful pieces in our church. What an experience for our choir to contribute to such a consummately professional performance. In his tribute on Sunday to all the gaffers and foley artists that played minor and major roles in the event, Haydn implied there might be an encore presentation two years from now. DON'T MISS IT! He also launched the promise of another incredible concert next April by St. John's own Russell Braun and Caroline Maule. I'd suggest you pencil that in now as well!!! -LDM
Review from Website of St. John's United Church, Georgetown & Glen Williams, Ontario |
|
|
